Ski Patrol and Level 1 Instructor Course

Course Type Ski Patrol | Career Break
Dates 16th Jan-1st April
Price From £9450
Venue Canada - Sun Peaks
Qualifications CASI/CSIA Level 1 Instructor Certification | NUEC L3
Add Flights? Add flights for £650

About the Trip

This 11-week program trains you not only as an instructor but also as a Patrol mountain rescuer. Combining our Ski Patrol Course with a CSIA skiing or CASI snowboarding Level 1 instructor course makes you doubly employable. Not only will you improve your ability, but you’ll have real back-country experience, making you a valuable asset to every ski and snowboard school in the world.

Features

Level 1 CSIA/CASI instructor and 8-week patrol training.

Accommodation and meal package for 11 weeks

NUEC Level 3 certification – 110 hr advanced outdoor first aid

Avalanche safety certification

Advanced Protocol training and Certification

Rope Rescue and Patient extraction

All specialist Equipment Provided

Benefits

Qualified to work anywhere in the world

Guaranteed job interviews for the top achievers

Safety skills to progress into the back-country

Improved risk management awareness

One-to-one mentoring with the Mountain Ops Team

Gateway to vocational employment options

Strong first aid skills to apply to any industry

Click to see what the fuss is about!

Cahility Lodge

Located in the heart of Sun Peaks Resort, the Cahilty Lodge is the perfect base for a ski instructor course. Forgot your goggles or want to head back for Lunch? The Cahilty is ski-in/ski-out and only a short walk from all the shops, restaurants and ski lifts. Based on the alpine style with spacious rooms, it has everything you need to make it a home-from-home.

The studios and 1-bedrooms suites are well set up for short and long stays. All Murphy rooms feature a kitchenette, gas fireplace, dining area and free wireless internet. The dining room table seats four people, and there’s a flat-screen TV and comfy sofa for relaxing when the room is set up for single or double occupancy. Otherwise the non kitchenette versions are a standard double Queen hotel room with basic facilities comprising, kettle, microwave, and fridge. Rooms are set out in blocks, so you’ll be next to all your fellow instructor mates.

There is a double share or a single room availability, and the price is reflective of this difference.

Guest amenities include a fitness room, outdoor hot tubs, ski storage and a laundry area.

Facilities: Ski-in, Ski-out | Outdoor Hot Tubs | Gym | 24-Hour Reception | Lockable Ski Storage | Wifi | Fireplace | Kitchen | Ensuite

Sun Peaks

The resort of Sun Peaks is huge! Nestled in the valley between 3 mountains spanning over 4200ac of awesome terrain, Sun Peaks Resort boasts the second largest skiable area in Canada. Offering some of the best conditions that BC offers and officially the sunniest resort, it’s no surprise that people flock from around the world to see what the fuss is about.

With perfectly groomed slopes, powder bowls, park and backcountry options to suit all styles and abilities but without the crowds. Maybe that’s why the Interski trials are held here.

Back it up with enough hotels, shops, bars, restaurants, cafes and amenities to make it the 2nd most extensive resort in Canada, and you’ve got a world-class venue to keep the most discerning characters grinning from ear to ear. Prepare to be astounded.

Breakfast and Dinner

If it’s one thing we want you to do. It’s to stay fuelled up.

Four breakfasts and dinners per week can be included with your course, meaning you’ve got time to relax and concentrate on what’s important.  With pretty much the pick of the menu across 3-4 restaurants, it gives you enough variety every week to not get bored and ensures you’re getting what you need. However, if you have special dietary requirements or prefer to cook for yourself, then some of the rooms have kitchenettes, allowing you to take more control over what you eat.

Special nights are arranged during the course when everyone can get together for something a little different. Mexican Margherita night, anyone?

As great as it is being catered for, there’s plenty of time to cook for yourself back in your studio. We get it. Sometimes it’s nice to relax, order a pizza, make a bowl of pasta, and catch up on Netflix. Regardless of your culinary skills, there are plenty more places to eat in Sunpeaks Village. Whether you’re a vegetarian*, meat fiend, spice lover, or want something simple, there’s something for everyone.

*Please say if you have dietary requirements, as we can advise what is possible or even suggest self-catering if that works better for you. We’ll also give you plenty of advice on how much to budget for all your extra costs, plus that odd cheeky beer!

Just got back from spending most of the season in Sun Peaks and Panorama with the WSC. What an incredible experience. Rik, Emma and Rob were brilliant. They were unfailingly helpful and eager to help make the experience the best it could be. Always available when things didn’t go right to put them right. This season presented massive challenges to the industry due to Covid, resort staffing shortages and supply issues. I was constantly amazed how WSC team were constantly thrown curve balls, that they took in their stride, making sure everyone got the courses and experience necessary to become instructors or ski patrollers and have great time while doing it. The ski patrol course in particular is a very special opportunity that is hard to beat. If you are serious about becoming a patroller this is the real deal.

Roger Gibbon – Level 2 and Patrol – Sun Peaks/Panorama

Accommodation
About the Location
Meal Plan
Testimonials

Training Package

Level 1 Training
4 days a week, provided by CSIA level 3 & 4 instructors. Level 1 course conductors mentor the programme, take training and provide tailored feedback as you prepare for the level 1 exam.

CSIA/CASI Level 1 ski instructor exam
The level 1 course exam is included in the price.

CSIA/CASI Membership & Instructor Licence.
As part of your course we enrol you with the CSIA. Membership for the year is included and you will be provided with a login to the CSIA website where you can sign up for the level 2 exam. Upon completion of level 1 you will be a licenced instructor.

Shadow Teaching
All participants have the opportunity to shadow the sports school on days off from pro-coaching. Shadowing real lessons helps prepare trainees for exams and provides observational experience in a mountain environment.

Ski Patrol Training Programme
Up to 40 hrs per week training covering 13 modules. A full breakdown of module content can be found on our ski patrol qualifications page.

  • Module 1: CPR – BLS for Healthcare Professionals
  • Module 2: Non-Urban Occupational Emergency Care, Level 3
  • Module 3: Advanced Protocol Training
  • Module 4: Rope Rescue
  • Module 5: Aerial Lift Evacuation & Self Evacuation
  • Module 6: Patient Extrication & Evacuation
  • Module 7: Avalanche Skills Training, Level 1
  • Module 8: Risk Management
  • Module 9: Incident Investigation
  • Module 10: General Patrolling
  • Module 11: Helicopter Orientation, Air Evacuation, Air Rescue
  • Module 12: GPS & Compass Orientation
  • Module 13: Mentoring

Specialist Equipment
All specialist equipment required for training is provided as part of the course.
You will receive a pack with all the essential equipment required to work with ski patrol. Items include Avalanche safety gear: probe, shovel, transceiver, first aid supplies and medical equipment. Backpacks are on loan and must be returned in good condition. They can be purchased at the end of the course in resort if requested.

 

 

Additional Training Options
Participants can opt to take the CSIA or CASI level 2 instructor exam following the ski patrol training. Level 2 modules and assessments can be booked directly with CSIA or CASI by the participant upon completion of the level 1 and cost circa $960.

Visa Assistance & Guaranteed Work Interview

We have partnerships and connections with several sports schools across the world and offer a guaranteed interview with Panorama for the following season after the successful completion of your Level 2. We also provide two further guaranteed interviews at resorts in both Canada and Japan. Comprehensive advice and assistance is given to all Winter Sports clients when applying for working holiday visas.

Snow Ready Fitness Plan

Created for Winter Sports by a personal trainer & instructor, this 8 week pre-season fitness programme targets the muscle groups used in skiing & snowboarding and will make sure you are snow-fit in time for the start of your course.

 

 

Weekly Schedule
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The Level 1 instructor ticket is based on a 4-day week with an extra day for shadowing. Ski Patrol training is provided five days a week, typically Monday-Friday. Days off and weekends can be spent shadowing ski school & free skiing.

Week One

Settling in, exploring and introduction to being a ski or snowboard instructor

Week Two

CSIA/CASI Standards – improvement and technique – including video analysis.

Week Three

Continued improvement & CSIA/CASI Level 1 exam

Week Four

Small break then introduction to general ski patrolling. Rope Rescue and Avalanche Skills Training Level 1.

Week Five

Aerial lift evacuation & self evacuation, introctution to GPS & Compass, Risk Management and Incident Investigation.

Week Six - Eight

Non-Urban Occupational Emergency Care, Level 3. 110 hrs first aid course. Both classroom and outdoor teaching and situations.

Week Nine

Advanced Protocol, Patient Extrication Evacuation, Heli-Orientation & Air Evacuation tactics.

Week Ten - Eleven

On-mountain mentoring with Panorama or Sun Peaks Ski Patrol. Companion Rescue module available and L2 instructor modules and exams.

"Snowboard Level 1 and Patrol"

Craig Geary - Sept 2020

"The Winter Sports Company has been brilliant, always helpful and quick to answer any questions or problems I might have. Training alongside an actual ski-patrol team was unbelievable and a brilliant way to get hands on and involved in the day to day life as a ski-patroller. Being able to do the course on a snowboard made it so much easier for me personally and there were many advantages to it, as well as disadvantages which only added to the challenge! The whole experience has been the best of my life, I would highly recommend anyone to just bite the bullet and go and do it, you won't regret it. You only regret the things you didn't do!"

Monster Cat X

Cat skiing is a form of backcountry exploration, taking you away from the borders of controlled ski areas to ride through untouched powder. Take a ride to the top of The Taynton Bowl at Panorama Mountain Resort.

Sled Mobile

Enhance your CV and give the resort director another reason to hire you. Opportunity to gain your BCSF smart sledding course certificate and use it for future employment, or just enjoy a great day out on the neighbouring mountain getting to grips with your sled and enjoying aBBQ lunch up on the mountain lodge.

Nordic Skiing

The silence of the wilderness and the almost spiritual experience of gliding through a winter world leaving nothing but tracks in the snow is an irresistible combination.

CSIA Park Level 1

The CSIA Park level is a 3 x day-long course that covers the teaching and technical aspects of switch skiing, snow-park awareness, boxes/rails and air. You will learn the teaching principles and safety needed for instructing in the park. You will learn development strategies and teaching approaches, how to navigate students in the park, communicate clearly, and spot hazards in the park. In the end, you will be assessed, and you must be able to show clear park demonstrations and teaching abilities. CSIA SnowPro

Tree Wells & All Mountain Safety

An absolutely serious must-do, one-day course for all skiers and snowboarders who venture off the groomed runs. In our opinion, everyone should do this course; they are some of the closest dangers and yet the most overlooked. Learn about how tree wells form and safe riding through the trees.  What action to take if you fall into a tree well, and how to rescue someone. Additionally, this course will introduce you to often overlooked hazards that one may encounter, such as cold exposure injuries, variable snow conditions and more.

Intro to Backcountry Skills

During this 2-day course, you will spend time doing both on & off-piste technical training. You will develop a strong understanding of advanced technical concepts and learn about tactics and tools for developing off-piste skiing/riding skills in various environments. You will ski steep terrain, deep snow, glades, un-groomed conditions, bumps, and low visibility, to help gain knowledge in terrain adaptation and awareness in a changing mountain environment. Over the course, you will become familiar with your equipment and will be assessed in terrain analysis, hazard analysis, and trip planning to ensure safety when skiing the backcountry. Equipment (powder skis, skins, snowshoes, split board) are not included. You must have also completed the AST 1 & Companion rescue to take part in this.

Entry Level Race Coach

ACA-CSC coach education program links directly with Alpine Canada's Long Term Athlete Development stages of growth and skill development. At each program level, coaches acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the athlete's growth and skill development needs. During the course, you will learn how to reduce the risk of accidents and how to coach ski racers. This course promotes continuous improvement and life-long learning for coaches and coaching excellence at every level in the Canadian development system. Race Coaching ACA-CSC.

NUEC I (Level 2)- Emergency Response First Aid

The two or four-day first aid course will provide the necessary training for those working in remote areas giving them the knowledge and skills to evaluate medical emergencies, decide the best course of action and triage, treat and evacuate the patient. Perfect for those working as instructors, guides, safety patrollers, and forestry. Topics will include but are not limited to life-limb-threatening injuries, CPR, survival skills, critical decision-making, stretcher use and other common scenarios experienced in these industries. Great to have on your CV and a fantastic introductory skill set for becoming a ski patroller or backcountry guide aiming for their NUEC Level 3.

Dog Sledding

The resort and nearby terrains offer an exhilarating dog sled adventure. You will meet the team and learn everything you need to know about dog sledding tours in Canada before heading out for a thrilling experience across beautiful landscapes. All sleds are guided, and the tour allows 30 to 40 minutes of sled time through majestic lodgepole pine trees. In return, you will get to thank the dogs by giving them lots of cuddles and snacks.

Paragliding

We offer a serene experience; you'll get to experience Panorama from a completely different perspective. You can take off from 2 different spots (depending on the weather conditions). Summit takeoff gives you an 1110 m or 3650 ft flight height difference, and Champagne Express takeoff is 770 m or 2560 ft flight height difference. You will then land at the bottom of Little Dipper, where your pilot will teach you how to roll the Parachute back up safely. They also provide a camera you can hold to film your adventure, so bring a storage chip to put in it!

Sled Mobile

With over 32,000 acres of terrain, experience the exhilarating feeling of driving a sled mobile. Make your cv shine & take your BCSF certification online prior to taking the experience if you want to gain a certificate. Practice handling your new sled in the snow field, then you head up to the Silver mining town remnants at 8000ft up at the top of the mountain, stunning views of Panorama, old-growth forests, spectacular icefalls and lots of free time blasting around the open bowl with your friends. Fuel up with a mountain-size lunch in the cosy cabin and then head down back to base.

Banff Blow Off

It's not Ibiza, admittedly, but it's a great vibe and the best that the infamous Banff can offer. One night and two days on the slopes of the big mountains surrounding the iconic Banff town. Includes accommodation, transport, and lift passes. Relax and take some time out from Panorama, do some shopping, and get up on the big mountain of Sunshine, Lake Louise or Norquay. Then put your party face on and have a big night out with your mates before calling it a day and heading back to HQ. This either happens after your exams or at the end of your winter season.  

Ice Skating the Worlds Longest Trail

Enjoy a skate with your pals on the Biggest Lake trail in the World, according to the Guinness Book of Records! Armed with a bbq, burgers, beers,  tunes, hockey sticks and a bunch of your friends. A great day out just cruising around doing something different for the day, or for those wanting a more physical challenge, then why don't you attempt the full 35km skate ring around the lake?

Ice Hockey Match

Watching ice hockey is a must for anyone spending significant time in Canada. As the national sport, you'll be hard-pressed to avoid it. It is on screens in bars and restaurants everywhere you turn! So, as a group, we will take a bus trip down to watch the game and get a bite to eat. It will be a fun night out that you won't want to miss! This is organized in the resort, and if you are in Panorama or Revelstoke, it's a weekly event. If you are at Sun Peaks, it's a once or twice a season event. Check out a previous Ice Hockey trip. 

Heli Ski Trip

Heli-skiing is, quite simply put, the ultimate off-piste experience - perfect for freeskiers/riders, thrill-seekers and powder lovers. The adrenaline rush as you board the helicopter is nothing compared to the breathtaking views as you fly over the mountains. 3-5 runs into pristine powder fields. It's enough to put a grin on your face for months. Ultimate bragging rights. Make sure you take a Go-pro or pay for extra footage. Equipment is included, but make sure you have insurance to cover you. Extra insurance can be arranged. Sun Peaks clients must do the Revelstoke trip to do this.

First Tracks & Best Bits

You could spend all season in the resort and still miss these little gems. Your guide for the day knows every nook and cranny of the mountain. This is a non-training day, but by the end of it, you will know all the local knowledge on every section of the mountain. Knowing which slopes are best in certain conditions. Knowing what the local dangers or difficulties are in each area of the mountain. Finding the best runs through the trees. It's best done early in your programme so that you can get the most out of your time in the resort armed with a new sense of your surroundings. There is no better way to start the day than as VIPs and being the first ones up the lift for some First Tracks.

Ski & Board Tech Tips

Learn how to get the most out of your equipment from the pros. An evening in the workshop. Makes a great present for someone and gives them the knowledge on how to look after their equipment, tune it for the conditions and cover the overall safety aspects of your settings.

Steep n Deep at Revelstoke

Please take a peek at one of the world-class resorts in our books. Revelstoke is a monster of a resort and a pilgrimage everyone must make in their lifetime. It has the highest vertical in Canada and is consistently voted in the top #3 as the best resort in Canada. A must-see alternative for all those wanting to experience industrial amounts of snow, steep exciting terrain and incredible backcountry terrain. It's hard not to fall in love with the place; we will think you'll agree. It is a great place to spend with your feet up and relax on those days off, with grand entertainment areas, comfortable bedrooms, spacious bathrooms, a jacuzzi on the balcony, log fireplaces and plenty of storage. Choose between the lodge or the hostel. Either way, it's a real once-in-a-lifetime venue. Includes accommodation for three nights, three days. Transport to and from Revelstoke & Lift passes for three days of some unforgettable skiing/riding.  

Off-Piste Tactical Training

This course offers a blend of coaching geared towards boosting your technique off-piste, allowing you to charge through the conditions and terrain confidently. It includes a basic understanding of the terrain's pitfalls and how to choose a successful track, taking into account the local dangers. You will also understand how to alter your stance and commitment when carving a path off the beaten track. We try to run this on a powder day but cannot guarantee this. This often books up early.

CASI Park Level 1

In this 2 days long park course, you will explore snowboarding techniques and teaching methods, as they relate to introductory terrain park. Allowing you to gain an understanding of basic freestyle techniques, as well as lesson planning and effective communication skills. During the course, you will receive coaching, feedback and strategies for long-term development.  Course candidates will be assessed and updated daily on their performance and progress and by the end of the course, you will have the skills necessary to safely introduce students to the terrain park and freestyle snowboarding. CASI Park  

Canadian Adaptive Snowsports

This certifies instructors to teach skiers and snowboarders with disabilities personal ski/snowboard improvement. You will develop skills to provide opportunities for people with disabilities to experience adaptive snow sports safely. You will learn how to use teaching aids, adaptive equipment and carry out basic safety procedures. Depending on which resort you go to, this will increase your hourly wage at your next chance of employment as you will be considered a Dual Instructor. The most affordable and effective course to enhance your pay rate. Canadian Adaptive Snowsports Level 1

AST Level 1: Avalanche Skills Training & Companion Rescue

Do you enjoy backcountry skiing or heading off-piste? If so, AST level 1 & Companion Rescue are a must! During the course, you'll learn to recognise avalanche terrain, understand the avalanche forecast, plan your trips, and perform a companion rescue with a variety of search and rescue techniques with single or multiple casualties. Understanding the landscape, especially as a backcountry skier, is essential to support yourself when skiing, to stay safe, and to avoid danger. Three days of vital learning to understand how to be a valued member of your group when things go wrong. Check out our AST page to find out more.

Find Out More

A winter in the mountains is an exciting opportunity, and we want to best prepare you for what’s to come. Our blog details past experiences of clients who have qualified as instructors and those who have continued to work in the industry. We also dive into how to best prepare for a season and what to expect when you arrive. After reading, there are so many facets to a season, and we’re sure you’ll want to become a certified ski bum.

How to Get into the Patrol Industry

Although difficult, patrol work is incredibly rewarding, let’s run through the steps to becoming qualified to work in patrol…

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Why Choose Us?

There’s so many reasons as to why you should go through WSC – the support and reps are unmatched, endless opportunities to improve and the chance to live in real BC ski towns.

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Geoff's Experience

“Not many companies offer the level of instruction WSC offers and they certainly came through. Highly recommend if you want to “up” your ski game and have fun doing it!”

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Don't be a Sheep

There’s so much more to skiing in Canada than Whistler, trust us. Spend less time in lift lines and more time cruising fresh lines.

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Are You Convinced Yet?

Let’s walk through how to do a ski season in your gap year – it’s pretty simple with our help.

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Do I Need a Visa?

With all of our ski and snowboard courses, all you need is a travel visa, so let’s get you on the slopes in no time.

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What is included

Transfers

Outbound and return transfers are included from Kamloops Airport as standard with all bookings with Flights, and subject to arrival times if booking own flights.

Accomodation

Staying at the Cahility Lodge, you’ll have everything you need. Ski in/out, and centrally located in the village. It’s the perfect location for a patrol and instructor course.

We can accommodate couples and friendship groups upon request. A limited number of single rooms are available for an additional £350 per week.

Meal Plan

4 Breakfasts and dinners are provided every week of your stay. Using 3-4 different restaurants within the resort. You can add this for an additional £110 per week or simply add breakfast only for £36 a week, or dinners only for £75 per week.

Season Lift Pass

Your lift pass is season long, this means if you decide to add additional weeks your lift pass will be valid.
Lift pass benefits include discounts in selected shops and restaurants as well as on some activities, equipment rentals, maintenance and repairs.

Resort Representative

A rep is in the resort to oversee the course. Reps are knowledgeable about the resort, qualifications and training, and have often taken part in the course previously.

Training Package

Includes 20 hours of training per week when preparing for your Level 1 instructor ticket, and up to 40hrs per week when training as a Patroller.

CSIA Level 1 Ski Instructor Exam

CSIA Level 1 is the first big step to becoming a ski instructor. The qualification is split into three main components; your teaching of skiing, your own technical skiing and your people skills. The exam is three days long and you are evaluated on an ongoing basis.

CSIA Membership

Regular Members enjoy a wide-variety of Member Benefits including Pro Deals, General Liability Insurance and Accident, Death and Disability coverage.

Specialist Equipment

All specialist equipment required for Ski patrolling is provided on loan.

Not Included

FLIGHTS (add flights for an extra £650)
MEALS (lunches and Weekends)
INSURANCE
ANCILLARY BOLT ON COURSES
EQUIPMENT OR RENTAL

Dates & Prices

Course Dates Accommodation Double Single Flights

Ski Patrol + Lvl 1

16th Jan to 1st April

Cahility Lodge

£9450

+£350 a week

+£650

Ski Patrol + Lvl 1 & 2

29th Nov to 1st April

Cahility Lodge

£14350

+£350 a week

+£650

Book Your Course Today

11 weeks not enough? Tailor the course to your travel – contact us for a quote to add a week or two to the beginning or end of your course. Additional weeks vary depending on availability.

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FAQ

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